I generally don't write Yelp reviews, so I'm sure this won't stay up for very long, but I just have to do it for Comrade. As a woman, going to bike shops is generally a pretty anxiety inducing experience. I've been treated poorly at just about every shop I've ever been to whether it's employees being annoyed at my very presence to treating me like an idiot because I didn't feel like fixing my own flat (I'm lazy, whatever!). But Comrade is seriously the best bike shop experience I've ever had. Everyone is helpful and friendly and I always feel completely welcome, which is pretty incredible. They're real mensches at this place! read more

Jesse at Comrade Cycles is a hero among men! He has not only made my month, he has restored my faith in humanity and community. You see, he recovered my stolen bike (nearly 4 years to the day after it was stolen!). He could have kept my bike, sold it and turned a profit. But no! Instead, he took the time to check the Stolen Bike registry, reclaim the bike and then graciously contact me. He went far beyond the call of duty of any normal human being, and I am so incredibly grateful and thankful. Good people is an understatement. Give these guys your business. read more

I would rethink Comrade, I believe in the way they have set up their business in terms of taking care of their workers. I also had a really difficult experience there going in just for a tune up! I realize that mistakes can be made, and in the end things were 80% taken care of. My gripes are that I was treated poorly as a result of their mistake, and after asking around it sounds like the mistake was more rookie than honest. Not out to villify them just worth stating in the face of their #2 ranking in Timeout Chicago . read more

Best bike shop in the city. Yes. Yes, I think so. After four years of cycling year round in this city, you'd think I would know a lot about bike maintenance. But I don't. And because of that, I rely on bike stores for assistance in lots of my cycling needs. I have to say, I have not had a lot of luck with shops in the city. I usually find the service to be rude and over priced. I dread going in to shops because of some negative experiences I've had over the years. Yesterday I was hurrying off to the naked bike ride when I got a flat. I left my flat repair kit at home and was in walking distance of this bicycle shop. I walked over to the bicycle shop and saw that the store was gated closed but the door was still open. I nervously asked if I could buy a flat repair kit. They told me to come in and they'd fix my flat for me. I've been getting a lot of flats recently and the guy fixing my bike, Jesse I think, explained to me why I may be getting a lot of flats. And then he told me my brakes needed new pads. I brushed it off and said I'd worry about it later. And while I was paying for the flat fix, he fixed my brakes for me. For free. FOR FREE. I haven't had working brakes in a year (I know, I know...). I seriously was amazed at how nice and skilled these guys are. I'm so glad I live in this neighborhood because I now have a bike shop I can go to. They went above and beyond and I can not thank them enough. Any further bike issues I have, I'll be going to this shop. And you should too. :) read more

These guys are amazing at quick repairs. My hybrid bike took a tumble off of my bike rack while driving. The rear wheel was damaged beyond repair, so I called on a Saturday, and did their curbside drop off service (thanks COVID-19). I had a fairly priced out quote, with parts and labor within about a half hour. They were able to turn the repair around in an hour and had it ready for me to pick up. Amazing service even in these weird times. Will definitely go back to them for any routine service and repairs. read more

I can't compare prices in Chicago, but this place is nice, and prices seemed fair. They only charge for work they do, so they checked my bike and found nothing that needed doing that could be done, so they didn't charge me. They were helpful with trail recommendations and general bike information and advice. I told them I'd wait so they worked on my bike right away and called me in less time than they predicted. They don't stock a ton of stuff, but the things they had seemed faily priced, about the same as on Amazon. There's lots of paid parking out front and it's a crapshoot block to block as far as permit parking goes in the surrounding area. Overall very fair, and I can't imagine being too much happier with another shop. read more

Friendly, unpretentious, and helpful. I dealt directly with Jesse at Comrade Cycles when he returned a recovered, stolen bike to my friend. Thanks Jesse. Even when I have been in here before this employee run shop has been welcoming and a pleasure to deal with. I will be back. I want to support such a great company in my own backyard. Bike parking out front, but you are welcome to brink your bike in with you to this quaint storefront. read more

This bike shop remains a 5 Star winner in my book. Recently, I brought my bike in to repair a flat tire....While I did leave my phone number, they failed to tell me they were closing early and for the next 2 days for West Fest. I can't say I blame them for closing during this West Fest, they aren't selling booze or food nor are they a temporary booth....So the gone fishing sign when up. However, the owner comp'd my tire repair on Monday and apologized for the misunderstanding. The owner is very professional and an excellent example of a top notch proprietor. Everyone makes a mistake but not all businesses know how to address or correct their misdeed to customer satisfaction. Comrade Cycles is a model business. I will return to purchase a new bike here just because they handled my complaint correctly and I can see they are professionals. Thank you Comrade Cycles! read more

YAY, COMRADE. Love you guys so much. I'm lucky enough to live super close to Comrade Cycles, which has become my go-to bike shop. Their services are fairly priced, the staff is always friendly (and are unpretentious/don't make me feel bad about not knowing a lot about bike maintenance), and they get the job done quickly! (Whenever I drop in for a quick fix like a flat or help getting my chain back on track, they take care of it within 5-10 min.) Will continue to go here until I move out of the neighborhood/Chicago! read more

Great Service! I was recommended here by a neighbor after telling her my brake never works at the beginning of each season. I had been going to Kozy, sometimes a couple of times a season to fix this issue each time being charged for service despite the fact they did not fix the issue. I walked in on a busy Sunday afternoon, they came over almost immediately to check out my bike, raised it up and said give us a moment. Within 5 minutes he had said the brake wire was getting corroded and he would replace if with a stainless cord for $25 including parts. He mentioned he may not be able to fix it today as they were busy and he would give me a call later this week. I said that was fine, I was not riding it with a broken break anyway. Within 3 hrs he gave me a call and said you are all set, I was able to fix it this afternoon. LOVE THIS PLACE!! Will be back often read more

I got a flat on grand and had to walk to the nearest bike shop. Lucky i located this one. I walked in and three guys were chilling by the register and greeted me nicely. I told them i had a flat and asked if he could show me how to fix it. He was really cool about the situation, told me the price up front, and proceeded to TEACH me how to change a flat tire. He was real down to earth and didnt seem snobby like other cycle shop workers. cool place with a laid back attitude read more

I first started going here on the advice of a friend and have never looked back. These guys are super nice! There's no cyclist ego like you find at many of the local bike shops.. These guys are down to earth and incredibly friendly. My most recent experience was due to some shifting issues on a high performance road bike. Their mechanic had in fixed perfectly in about 5 minutes! Every year I'm also involved in 200 charity bike ride and I was super happy when I found out that Steve from Comrade was going to be the ride mechanic this year! Not only great people but they are gracious enough to support local charities as well! You don't see that very often from a newer business but I was super excited to see that they did! Top notch shop! read more

I had a desire to change out my handlebars for awhile and decided to stop by to check out their selection and get a price assesment. The staff was super knowledgable and went beyond regular customer service with their helpful advice and patience. The woman who assisted me quickly found a nice, cheap set of bars and when we realized they wouldn't work exactly with my current breaks she spent time hunting around for less expensive options and was very considerate on not making this overhaul a pricy one. I use to work in a bike shop and know how easy it is for bike part prices to get jacked up, but it at Comrade they were very price conscious and things were priced at an extremely reasonable level, got a great detachable fender for 15.00! In the end I got a great new set of handlebars, a new detachable fender and found a wonderful new bike shop for future use! Highly reccomend !! read more

Great bike shop with helpful staff! Usually a quick turnaround, and reasonable priced.

Comrade has the most competent mechanics I have ever known. I have brought in several different bikes for non-trivial repairs and upgrades, and they have consistently impressed me with their quick turnaround times, friendliness, and pricing. I recently brought in a derailleur hanger that was advertised as fitting my frame, but did not actually fit due to a manufacturer oversight. Jesse told me that he had seen this before, and could easily grind down the hanger to fit my bike, and it would be ready within 2 days. I got a call from Bailey in less than 24 hours saying that it was good to go. Awesome! All that being said, I am confident bringing in my racing bike, commuter, and cyclocross bike here for basically anything. I'll continue to support this shop for as long as I live in Chicago. read more

Very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful guys, great service. And i really like their "worker owned" business model. Something rare and worth supporting. read more

Still the most reliable and affordable service I can find for bike repair. Thought I was going to need a full tune-up this time, but the guy told me the only thing I needed was a few tweaks for less than half the price. The only reason I would ever service my bike elsewhere from here on out is if it broke far away from home. I'd rate Comrade as 6 if it was an option! read more

Let me preface this review by saying that the last time I rode a bike regularly was probably at least 12 years ago. I'm excluding my Divvy bike excursion last summer :) I walked into Comrade Cycles and told Bailey that I'm uncomfortable with riding a bike, especially in the city, but I wanted shorten my commute to work since it's getting warmer. He gave me a couple of entry level suggestions and I went home to do my own research. After about a month, I finally got the courage to go back and decided I was walking out the door with my bike. Jesse helped me out and I test-rode 2 bikes, asked a ton of questions and in about an hour, I walked out of the store with my bike and all of my necessary gear. I can't thank all the guys enough for dealing with all of my questions. I'm hoping my bike won't need a ton of work over the next year, but at least I know I have the best guys in town to fix it up if I do! read more

Allison V. got it right - friendly, unpretentious, and helpful. I've been to quite a few bike shops that are elitist and arrogant, particularly if you're not the type of rider they cater to - e.g. a fixie shop or a place that sells high-end gear to roadies. Comrade is the polar opposite - welcoming and genuinely interested in helping you regardless if you're a commuter, racer, or whatever. The prices are reasonable and the advice is free. Gotta love that. read more

The people at Comrade Cycles were very friendly. I went in with my bike for a tune up. They checked it out and tightened the brakes for free. Then told me I don't need a tune up and that they would feel bad charging me for one. I was shocked. Great, honest bicycle shop. Thanks. read more

Comrade cycles has the most friendly, professional and helpful guys in the biz. I am a female competitive cyclist and these guys have always been helpful with all my biking needs. read more

I bought a Kona here last fall and have generally enjoyed working with the guys at the store. They are helpful and from what I've seen open to all kinds of cyclists and cycling. And to the dude who says Surly doesn't make Puglsey SS in x-small, according to their website they do: http://surlybikes.com/bikes/pug_ss_2015/geometry read more

I'm leaving my first Yelp review because this shop is so great. I bought a 10-speed from Working Bikes at the beginning of the summer, a pretty nice old frame with a mediocre drivetrain that I planned to replace with single-speed parts. I brought it into Comrade because of how well-reviewed they are on here and also because after checking out their website I was stoked to learn that it's worker-owned. Everyone I've spoken to in the shop has been super friendly and down to earth-- not at all "salesman-y," as other reviewers have mentioned. The turnaround was quick, the price was fair and the parts are great. I hit a pothole pretty hard this week and messed up my rear wheel's alignment so I brought it into Comrade after work today, about a half hour before close. I wanted to see what the timeframe would be to have them true it, and was told that it could be done then and there. Rad! So I went down the block and looked around Permanent for 20 minutes, and came back to learn that since they had replaced my rear wheel exactly 30 days ago, it was free. Fantastic! $20 richer, I went back to Permanent and bought myself Goblin's Zombi OST. It's a spooky halloween miracle. I'm planning to have some more work done on my bike this winter, and I know where I'll be having it done. read more

This place is just pure awesome for bike repair services. I brought my commuter bike in for an assessment and possible tune up after it nearly sat in my basement for two seasons collecting dust and cob webs. The crew checked it out and inflated the tires. The honest guys told me that it was still in perfect condition and all set to go for NO charge! Utter shock at their humble honesty and generosity. This will be my go to place for any bike services and these guys will forever be my comrades. read more

I brought my bike in a month ago because I remembered thinking, "Hey isn't there a new bike shop in my 'hood?" The guy inspected it and said, "Yup. It definitely needs a tuning. It also needs its wheels trued and you've got a broken spoke. Give us a couple days." Next day I got a call. "All good. It's ready." I rode it out of the store. Perfect. Whisper quiet. No prob. I brought my wife's bike in last week. "Not sure it NEEDS a tune up, but safe than sorry, right?" The guy put it up and took a look. "Actually the bike's in great shape. Just some grease and air is all it needs." "Something I can do?" "Sure, but we can do it. No charge." "Thanks." I'm digging the new bike store in my 'hood. read more

I can't tell you how lucky I am to have this wonderful bike shop in my neighborhood. Being a super avid rider, from commuter to long tours to tri races, I feel like I am always bringing a bike there for some reason or needing some accessory or maintenance issue cared for. You have to know, Lots of shops (and businesses) could be taking service lessons from these guys! They are courteous, helpful, knowledgeable, efficient- how many more adjectives can I come up with? Know also, that while this is a small shop, their inventory is so thouģhtfully chosen for quality, value and of course, hipness. They will order anything you want and the huge advantage of doing so through them is the wonderful follow up service you get! read more

I am consistently blown away by the customer service and the friendliness of the staff at this place. I have brought my very old and junky bike in for a couple fix ups and the staff here always provides me with the best options and associated cost. I recommend this place to anybody that wants excellent customer service with very competent and knowledgable staff. read more

I'll admit that I was predisposed to liking this place, simply because I was psyched to have a bike shop opening so close to me and it pleased me to read that they were worker owned. 2 stars already! Cue unseasonably warm March! Within just weeks after their opening, I found myself pulling out my bike for its yearly check-up. I walked in the door and the fellow behind the counter (Jesse) immediately asked how he could help and took my bike to the back. I looked around the store for a bit - noticed the large sign with the prices listed for all their services (which I LOVED) but then Jesse returned and told me to come on back and join him while he worked (star #3)! He told me that actually, my bike was in really good shape and didn't need much adjustment (another point scored, for not trying to sell me on things I don't need!) but that he'd fill my tires, oil the chain, etc. I told him that I thought the front tire had a slow leak and he offered to change the tube (and proceeded to tell me immediately how much that would cost - $16). I went for it, since I want to support them :) As he worked we talked about the shop, the people who worked there, organic groceries, punk rock bands from the 80's, and obviously my bike. Good conversation! He went ahead and adjusted the front break that was off a little bit, while he worked. But when all was said and done he only charged me for the tire (final star!) and reminded me to watch my pants when riding, since the chain is freshly lubed (I was still wearing work clothes, so that was extra kind). I've been a biker in Chicago for 16 years (with the same bike) and I've been to many, many bike shops. While most places have had knowledgeable staff, some places can feel overwhelming, impersonal, or too cool for your average joe. This place was down to earth, friendly, approachable, and all-around a good experience with none of the weirdness. I will definitely be back. read more

I've lived near Comrades for a while now, but never had a reason to go in until I recently picked up a commuter bike off of Craigslist. I stopped by a couple of days ago to pick up a bike lock and a helmet and was very impressed by how helpful and nice the guys working there were. As a total newbie, they humored my dumb questions regarding locks and gave me instructions on how to securely lock up my bike. Further, without charging me they checked out my bike to make sure everything was in working order since I had purchased it from a total stranger on CL. The guy inspecting it told me that honestly it looked really good and there was one small part that could be worked on now, but there would be no harm in waiting if I wanted to do so. I really appreciated that he didn't try to sell me a non-necessary service. Overall, a fantastic experience and they can count on me to use them for all of my bike-related needs from now on. read more

The service, parts and bike selection is excellent! Comrade has everything you need for commuter, messenger, hybrid and mountain. Super professional staff, knowledgeable and detailed. The team is approachable, and friendly. They can build custom bikes to fit your needs and dreams. Comrade will service you and keep you rubber side down!!!! read more

I have now been to several shops in the city. It seems that the general way that bike shop employees speak to customers is as they should already know everything bikes and they sort of talk down to you. Not at Conrad's. The staff couldn't be anymore helpful. I wish I had bought my bike from Conrad's! :( read more

I've had so much trouble with bikes. I built my own, fixed up friend bikes, and swore at the heavens above while doing it. Either way, that's alllll changed now. The guys here are so nice and friendly. And there prices are the best ive seen from a Chicago bike shop. While small in selection they have basically everything you'd need. I've sent friends here for help with their bikes and in return have told me stories of such kindness. You know how when you go into bike shops the guys working are just biker snobby pricks that don't wanna help you with shit? Well these guys at comrade are the OPPOSITE. I bought a tube from them about 2 weeks ago. While my dumbass was installing it I think I pinched it. So I went in the shop again to see if they could check it out and sell me a new one. The guy was so nice and just gave me a new inner tube and installed it for me. and it wasn't like he wasn't busy.. He was working on another bike when I came in. And it like 30 minutes before they close..(yeah I'm that guy). Anyway, if you are in the area, go to this bike shop.. And if you are not in the area... Go to this bike shop. Haha. Easily the best bike shop in chicago (and I've been to like 5 others) read more

I don't wanna say best bike shop in Chicago but I might as well. Best bike shop in Chicago! These guys carry the right kind of gear and the right kind of bikes for folks like me (the kinds of folks who will keep riding through winter and occasionally want to tear free and tour for a while.) Furthermore, they are extremely personable and great at giving suggestions. Bailey in particular has been a huge help over the last few stop ins. Basically, I would steer people here without a second thought. Oh! And some of their stuff is cheaper than even REI! That's hard to find! read more

Have only been here once but I had a awesome experience. I was helped immediately and I was in and out within minutes. Would definitely consider going back for any type of bicycle help. read more

Got my bike serviced here and had them replace the chain and chainring. The experience was great! They're very reasonable in price, didn't try to sell me any unnecessary parts/services, and the turnaround was really quick considering that its about to be full-blown biking season in like 2 weeks (seriously it's been very busy 2/3 times I've been in). Additionally, everyone here is SUPER nice, very personable and several of the employees texted me to give me updates or inquire about some concern I had mistakenly mentioned in passing (I referred to the wrong component, but they apparently took a note!). I'm not sure how most bike shops roll these days but texting me like were BFFs is pretty amazing imo. Way to goooo. I'll definitely be back and hope to get involved with their summer rides and CX practice. read more

Went in with high expectations, and they exceeded them. I asked for a full tune-up, they assessed my bike and said it was unnecessary. Instead, they adjusted my brakes and derailleur at about half the cost of the full tune-up. I would recommend this shop to anybody looking for fair, well-priced work to be done on their bike. read more

It is always refreshing to walk into a shop that is run by people who are passionate about what they do. Comrade Cycles is oozing with it. I knew I was going to be in the neighborhood, and wanted to check out Comrade Cycles. I walked in, and was soon greeted by Jesse. I made it clear that I was really just starting to look for a solid road/commuter bike that I could ride when I didn't want to lumber along on my cruiser. He left me to my devices for a few minutes and I poked around. Soon enough we started chatting, and he started giving me recommendations. After about a half hour of geeking out about bikes, I left, educated, and even more excited about biking than when I entered (which is not easy to do). I can't speak of their quality of work yet, but I can say that I've found a bike shop I'm 100% comfortable being in, which is rare, not only for bike shops, but shops in general. I urge you to pay Comrade Cycles a visit, and maybe recognize what a bike shop aught to be. I look forward to doing business with them in the future. read more

These guys rip. So glad to have them close by. You know that snarky attitude you receive at bike shops? Not here. The two guys working were super friendly and warm. They took my chain off to see if they could do something about a "clicking" sound. They ended up not being able to help me (out of their control), but it took 15 minutes out of their day just to peek at it. No charge. They fixed up my lady friend's bike for a reasonable price too. A welcome addition to Chicago Ave. read more

I absolutely adore this bike shop. I have been using them since they opened up and have never had a questionable experience. They are very fair with their pricing and are careful to not rip you off. There has been more than one occasion where I went in thinking I needed more than I did. They were always very honest and only did the repairs necessary. I have had several tune ups with them on various bikes, had a rack installed on a bike without the proper eyelets, had fenders installed, and various other services. The quality has always been spot on and if there was an issue with the initial work, they were always very good about making it right. read more

After reading their website which says you can drop by at any time for a free tuning assessment I rode my bike there. Once I got there I was told they would not do it and I had to come back later to leave my bike with them so they can do it after hours. I guess I had nothing else to do today other than riding there and back for nothing. Really disappointing, and clearly shows they have no respect for you as an individual. read more